Peppermint

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is a natural hybrid of spearmint and watermint, delivering a sharper, cooler, more intensely menthol flavor than its milder relative. Its high menthol content makes it the mint of choice for candy, chewing gum, and after-dinner teas.

Growing Peppermint

As a sterile hybrid, peppermint doesn't set viable seed and is propagated instead by dividing existing plants or rooting cuttings, both of which it does easily. Grow it in a container to prevent its runners from spreading uncontrolled, the same precaution needed with every other mint.

Culinary Uses

Peppermint's intense menthol punch makes it the preferred mint for teas, chocolate pairings, and candy canes, where a strong, cooling flavor is the point. It's generally considered too sharp for most savory cooking, where spearmint's gentler sweetness is usually favored instead.